A rapper becomes the Prime Minister of Nepal: Balendra Shah makes history

Balendra Shah, a 35-year-old rapper, will take the oath as Prime Minister of Nepal on Friday, following a landslide victory in the March elections, the first since the 'Generation Z' revolution of 2025. His promises of change resonated with an electorate frustrated by corruption and nepotism.

In a post-election message, Balen released a rap song calling for unity, quickly garnering over two million views. This is not his first political victory, as he has served for 3 years as the mayor of the capital, Kathmandu.

His supporters see him as a symbol of change, but there are concerns about the ability of his party, Rastriya Swatantra, to keep its promises. Shah, who became known for his critical lyrics about corruption, has gained popularity among the youth, with his songs becoming anthems of recent uprisings.